Thursday, May 16, 2024, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani welcomed Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, to Erbil today.

They discussed advancing energy sector collaboration, opportunities to invest in clean and renewable energy projects, and plans to improve the electricity sector for Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Both sides agreed on the importance of restarting Kurdistan's oil exports, as suspension has resulted in significant economic loss for Iraq.

After the meeting, they visited the Mass Global power plant in Pirdawood and the Khurmala power and refinery facilities operated by Kar Group in Erbil.

In a press briefing, they emphasized the importance of advancing the energy sector in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, particularly by adopting clean energy solutions, protecting the environment, and limiting air pollution. Prime Minister Barzani thanked the U.S. for its support in advancing the energy sector in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

Assistant Secretary Pyatt reaffirmed his country's support for a strong and prosperous Kurdistan Region within a federal Iraq. He commended the region's energy industry's progress, highlighting its alignment with global standards and likening this region to Oklahoma.